Pakistan calls on Afghan government to prioritize own issues, refrain from external commentary: FO

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday said that the Afghan government should “prioritize issues pertinent to Afghanistan and refrain from commenting on matters outside their jurisdiction,” hours after Afghan government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid called out Pakistan on the crackdown carried out by officials against Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) activists. 

Law enforcement agencies dispersed violent protesters in Muridke on Monday, resulting in casualties on both sides. One Punjab police Station House Officer (SHO) was martyred, 48 were injured, and 17 suffered gunshot wounds. Authorities report that three TLP protesters were killed in the clashes, along with one bystander, while eight civilians were injured.

In a statement issued on his X account, the Afghan government spokesperson alleged that the “Pakistani military responded with direct gunfire and violent attacks on the protestors, resulting in significant casualties and financial losses among the civilian population.”

Mujahid said that the Afghan government was “profoundly saddened” by the incident, urging the Pakistani government “to cease any further acts of violence” and to “pursue resolution through dialogue and mutual understanding.”

While noting the statement issued by the Afghan government spokesperson, Pakistan's foreign office said, “We strongly encourage the Afghan spokesperson to prioritize issues pertinent to Afghanistan and refrain from commenting on matters outside their jurisdiction.” 

 “The principle of non-interference in matters of other countries should be adhered to as per international diplomatic norms. Pakistan does not require outside advice on its internal matters,” it said.

The foreign office said they expected the Taliban Regime to abide by its obligations and promises made to the international community during the Doha Process.

“The Taliban regime should not allow its land to be used for terrorism against other countries,” adding that the regime should focus on the “formation of an inclusive and truly representative government, instead of engaging in baseless propaganda.”

The statement from both sides comes after the neighboring countries engaged in a cross-border assault on the night of October 11–12. 

The Pakistani military said the assault saw Afghan Taliban fighters and allied militants launch coordinated attacks along multiple border sectors. 

Pakistani forces repelled the offensive, killing over 200 attackers, while 23 soldiers embraced martyrdom, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).